Fear is often based in perception. It’s how we look at things, people, or events that haven’t even happened yet. We perceive there might be something to be afraid of so we are.

I fear spiders because I know they’re out to get me. That is their mission in life. They spring out at me like this:

Then I’m all

The feeling is real, but the basis of the perceived fear is not.

As writers, we often struggle with fear that’s based in perception. We feel it, but it doesn’t mean it’s true.

We all share at least three common fears that feel true. I’m going to list the top three and then the answers to solve those fears that comes from the collective wisdom of dozens of writers.

1. The fear of not having any talent.

Where does this fear come from?

It can be based on two things. Low self-esteem or not wanting to be vulnerable. When we write, it’s personal. It’s us. Our voice created out of life experiences and life can sometimes kick us in the butt and steal our lunch money.

So what’s the answer to fear rooted in low self-esteem or not wanting to be vulnerable?

Write anyway.

2. The fear of rejection.

What do you do if your family, friends or your weird coworker makes fun of you for writing?

Write anyway.

3. The fear that we’re not going to have the same success that Mr. or Mrs. Multi-Accomplished Writer found. This is the comparison game and no one wins this never-ending game. So don’t play it.

Write anyway.

Don’t let fear win. Your writing is much too important to the world for that. Someone out there needs what you have to say.